Holton played for Shrewsbury Town, Manchester United, Miami Toros, Sunderland, Coventry City and Detroit Express.

Holton was born in Lesmahagow, South Lanarkshire, and trained with Celtic as a youngster but was not offered a contract.

[2] Holton was quickly signed by former Manchester United goalkeeper Harry Gregg who was managing Shrewsbury Town in England's third tier.

[2] In December 1972 Docherty replaced Frank O'Farrell managing struggling Manchester United near the bottom of England's top flight.

Near unbeatable in the air and aggressive in the tackle, he offered a formidable physical presence that compensated for his lack of delicacy in possession of the ball.

[3] At United he was a favourite among fans who taunted opponents with the chant: Six foot two, eyes of blue, Big Jim Holton's after you.

[8] In the summer of 1976 Holton played for the Miami Toros of the North American Soccer League (NASL).

[14] In a 1974 FIFA World Cup qualification match against Czechoslovakia at Hampden Park on 26 September 1973, Holton scored the equalising goal in a 2–1 win for Scotland.

[14] Joe Jordan scored the winning goal, as Scotland qualified for their first World Cup finals since 1958.

Holton played in all three group games for Scotland at the 1974 FIFA World Cup in West Germany.

[13][14] Holton played for Scotland on 30 October 1974 in a 3–0 friendly win over East Germany at Hampden Park.

Less than six weeks after the East Germany game, Holton suffered his leg break at Manchester United.

[13][14] Holton stayed in Coventry after retiring from professional football, working as a pub landlord at The Rising Sun and then The Old Stag in the city centre.

His funeral was attended by over 1,000 people including John Sillett, Steve Ogrizovic, Tommy Docherty and Joe Jordan.